GRIDS-SCF: An Infrastructure for Distributed Supply Chain Simulation

Within the context of supply chain simulation, this paper introduces the generic runtime infrastructure for distributed simulation as a novel infrastructure for distributed supply chain simulation that promotes user transparency and extensible service provision. These are discussed with regard to a distributed simulation of a supply chain model (federation) GRIDS-SCF and a case study on supply chain simulation from the automotive industry. The main aim of this work is to provide industry with a business benefit from distributed simulation by making it possible to connect and reuse previously developed models in a supply chain while minimizing technological intervention (additional technological skills required) with the end user simulationist. It is suggested that this approach may pave the way for distributed supply chain simulation that emphasizes simulation methodology rather than technology.